RismadarVoice Reporters
November 11, 2026
Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio (MMI) has congratulated three Akwa Ibom women who contributed to Nigeria’s historic victory at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
The organisation celebrated Mary Dunstan Akpan, a member of the victorious Flamingos squad, alongside team secretary Arit Robert Effiong and physiotherapist Charity Etim Godwin.
In a statement dated November 11, 2026, and signed by its International Public Relations Officer, Akp. (Pst.) Idongesit Ikono, MMI, described their achievements as a source of pride for Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
Nigeria made history on November 7 after defeating Japan 2–1 in the final in Rabat, becoming the first African nation to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Goals from Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku secured the victory, while Japan’s Fuki Ito scored a consolation goal in the 80th minute.
MMI particularly commended Akpan, an indigene of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, for her contribution to the team’s successful campaign.
According to the Confederation of African Football, Akpan provided the pass that led to Bashiru’s opening goal in the final.
The organisation said her performance demonstrated the determination, resilience and sporting potential of young women from Akwa Ibom State.
It also recognised Effiong and Godwin for their contributions to the team’s technical and administrative operations throughout the competition.
MMI noted that the professionalism and dedication of the two officials formed part of the collective effort behind Nigeria’s achievement.
The organisation maintained that the success of the three women demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for talented individuals to excel beyond their immediate communities.
It called on relevant institutions and stakeholders to collaborate with the Akwa Ibom State Government in recognising and celebrating their contributions.
MMI further urged government agencies, sports administrators and private organisations to invest in programmes that identify, develop and support young sporting talents.
The organisation stressed that sustained investment in grassroots sports could provide more opportunities for young people, particularly girls, to pursue successful careers.
It also encouraged young people across Akwa Ibom State to draw inspiration from the achievement and remain committed to developing their abilities.
MMI congratulated the entire Flamingos squad and their officials, describing the World Cup triumph as a landmark achievement for Nigerian and African women’s football.
The organisation expressed hope that the victory would inspire greater participation and investment in women’s sports across the country.
